“Defending the right to life of the unborn is the most important social justice issue of our time. It will shape the kind of Ireland we live in for years to come.” Finola Bruton is chair of the Parish Pastoral Council of Dunboyne & Kilbride.
“We’re in unprecedented times with constantly changing social and moral values. Our contribution to our families, the Church and society has never been more important.” Catherine Wiley, from Mayo, is founder of the Catholic Grandparents Association.
“In my 40 years of practice I’ve seen many difficult cases but I’ve never felt the Eighth Amendment had a negative impact on the safe practice of medicine.” Dr John Monaghan is a retired obstetrician and gynaecologist.
“It is not easy to be pro-life as a medical student. Some may criticise my stance, others may support me, but I chose a career in medicine to save lives.” Clare Crowley, 27, is a final year medical student at the University of Limerick.
"Some people say you can’t be a feminist unless you support abortion. Yet there are many women like me who consider ourselves feminists but also respect life from conception.” Emma Sisk, from Co. Tipperary, is a communications officer for the Irish Bishops’ Conference
"If the Eighth Amendment is repealed it will have en impact, not only on the general public, but those of us working on the health sector whose duty is always to save lives." Eilish Butler, 27, is a nurse from Innishannon. Co. Cork
“The doctors told us our baby had a ‘fatal foetal abnormality’ and that they were 100% certain that our baby wouldn’t live. We were told there was no hope at all.” Sinéad McBreen with her daughter Grace from Bailieborough, Co. Cavan
“I’m challenged on my views a lot because I’m a man. There are some who feel I shouldn’t have an opinion. As a father, I say we should all have a voice in this debate. It’s a family issue at heart” Séan Feeney with his son Aaron from Castleknock, Dublin 15
“I’m so thankful the Eighth Amendment was there to protect me from making a quick and rash decision when I was experiencing a crisis pregnancy” Emma Maloney, 25, from Co. Kildare, pictured with her son Rossa
“To be a mother is an opportunity for a lifetime of love. To be a mother to a baby with a terminal illness is no less a privilege. It is an extraordinary opportunity for a deep and lasting love.” Clíona Johnson, from Dublin, whose son John Paul lived for just 17 minutes
“As a society we need to ensure that every human life is loved and protected, especially at its most vulnerable and defenceless stage” Luke Silke, 19, is a writer and historian from Co Galway
“We are proud that the Eighth Amendment represented by Article 40.3.3 of the Constitution creates a truly equal society, recognising both the rights of the mother and the unborn.” James and Ann-Marie Mahon from Tullamore, Co. Offaly
“I hope that together we can work towards protecting Ireland’s Eighth Amendment. It is a law that has protected hundreds of thousands of Irish lives.” Sarah Moynihan, 21, is a student from Co. Meath.
“As a man it can be difficult to discuss the idea of abortion when it is so commonly referred to as a ‘woman’s right’. Men can often feel like they should remain silent on the issue.” Richie Fenton, 28, is an architect from Co. Waterford.
“I think we really need to stand up and shed light on what we have in our Irish culture, which is a very deep respect and love for all our citizens whether born or unborn.” Tracy Harkin, from Co. Down, with daughter Kathleen Rose
